Jin, Chang Soo

Abstract
This study considers how the post-war generation has expanded its influence in Japanese politics after the 90’s. This generation has strongly desired to re-evaluate the LDP conservative main stream, which was oriented around economic development and preferred peaceful diplomacy. Therefore, the difference of ideological tendencies between generations is perhaps a more important factor in explaining the changes in foreign security policy, rather than the differences between the parties. The post-war generation, comprising those in their 40s and 50s, is more hard-line and active toward abduction issues, constitutional amendment issues, and rights of collective self-defense issues, compared to their former generations. And on historical issues, they support former Prime Minister Abe’s diplomacy. Also, they place great importance on the identity of Japan, and respect traditional values and culture. For example, they were against the succession of women in the Emperor system, but supported education reform laws. In contrast, they have displayed a new side of conservatism, by approving new liberalist reform, which is different from the old LDP. The post-war politicians are particularly advocating national interest-oriented policies. Because they adopt an aggressive stance toward historical issues, the possibility that they will choose a policy of compromise, like the former generation, is extremely low.
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